The Lassen National Forest is beginning to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement for the designation of over-snow vehicle use, in order to comply with Subpart C – Use by Over-Snow Vehicles, of the Forest Service Travel Management Rule. The intent of this part of the rule is to designate National Forest roads, trails, and areas where OSVs are allowed, restricted, and prohibited on National Forest System lands.
The Forest Service’s goal in designating OSV use on the Lassen National Forest is to ensure that the use of OSVs is well managed – with a system that ensures access, minimizes natural resource impacts and user conflicts, and promotes the safety of all Forest visitors. OSV use that is inconsistent with these designations would be prohibited under 36 CFR part 261.
The overall objective of this proposal is to provide a manageable system of trails and areas designated for OSV use within the Lassen National Forest, consistent with and to achieve the purposes of Forest Service Travel Management Rule at 36 CFR part 212.
As an important step in preparing the EIS, the Forest Service has prepared a Proposed Action, which serves as a point from which to continue dialog with the public about this project. At this time a decision has not been made regarding the project. The Forest Service encourages you to participate in this process and requests comments about any issues you may have with the Proposed Action or suggestions on how issues might be resolved.
To ensure your comments are fully considered during the scoping phase of this project, please submit comments by February 15th, 2015. Additional comments are welcome throughout the planning process.
“We look forward to active participation from all interested groups, organizations, and individuals. Effective stewardship of the Lassen National Forest is a dynamic process, and we welcome comment and the open sharing of ideas,” said Forest Supervisor Dave Hays.
For additional project background, supporting information, and how to comment, please visit the project website at http://data.ecosystem-management.org/nepaweb/fs-usda-pop.php?project=45832. If you have any questions or need more information, please contact Christopher O’Brien, Public Services Officer, at 530-257-2151.
